NOMINEES - Minneapolis Area Synod
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NOMINEES
Synod Council Ms. Karina Vincent (1st term)
Demographics:
Lay leader; Female; Youth; African-
Mr. Paavo Rundman (2nd term) American
Demographics:
Congregation:
Lay leader; Male; Youth; White
First Lutheran Church of Crystal;
Congregation/Conference:
Northwest Henepin Conference
Edina Community Lutheran Church;
Vocation/Employment:
Crosstown Conference
Student
Vocation/Employment:
Church Leadership:
Student
Vacation Bible School
Other:
“Along with serving on the Synod Council, I
play in my school’s orchestras and run tech
in our theater program, as well as personally Consultation Committee
playing a variety of instruments and working Rev. Rhonda Hlavinka
as a freelance animator. I’ve served one Demographics:
term on the Synod Council, regularly seek Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female;
opportunities to act as leader and participant White
in various faith-focused activities and look Congregation:
forward to further service in the church.” Salem English Lutheran Church; Central
Conference
Ms. Ronda Fenlen (2nd term) Vocation/Employment:
Demographics: Pastor at Salem English
Lay leader; female; Church Leadership:
Congregation: Pastor
Long Lake Lutheran Church in Isanti; Community Leadership:
Northern Conference “As a parent of two teenage boys, my
Vocation/Employment: volunteering and leadership outside the
Client Solutions Manager for Data Axle church primarily revolves around youth
Church Leadership: sports (basketball and baseball) and
VP Church Council/Executive Team; Worship school, where I have served on several
Leader; Missions; Adult Forum; Synod governing boards and teams.“
Council/Executive Team Other:
Community Leadership: “As a lifelong member of the Minneapolis
Central Minnesota Emergency Response Synod and pastor having served in the
Volunteer; 4H Volunteer synod for a majority of my 20 years in
Other: ordained ministry, I am eager to serve in
“I’m a cradle Lutheran raised in the Lutheran new and various ways. The consultation
Church; blessed to raise my daughters committee would be a wonderful
and now watch my grand children attend opportunity for me to serve our synod.”
Long Lake Lutheran (member since 1987). I
have enjoyed the last 3 years on the Synod
Council; just as sitting on your Church
Ms. Dee Ann Cameron
Demographics:
Council is a valuable educational experience
Lay Leader
I have found the same to be true while on
Congregation/Conference:
the Synod Council and would welcome the
Zion Lutheran Church, Anoka; Rum River
opportunity to participate for an additional 3
Conference
years. Thank you.”
Vocation/Employment:
Retired 26NOMINEES (cont.)
Other: Rev. Babette Chatman
“Recently retired from Zion Lutheran Church, Demographics:
where I was the Church Administrator for 17 Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female;
years.” Black
Congregation/Conference:
Rev. Angela Khabeb
Redeemer Lutheran Church; North
Demographics:
Minneapolis Conference
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Woman;
Vocation/Employment:
Black
Augsburg University Campus Pastor
Congregation:
Church Leadership:
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church; South
RLC Council co-chair Outreach and
Minneapolis Conference
Evangelism; Women’s ministry; MAS
Vocation/Employment:
Equity Lens comm; MAS Mission Table;
Associate Pastor at Holy Trinity
RLC Congregation Partner collaborator;
Church Leadership:
Northside Parish
Pastor; Columnist for Living Lutheran
Community Leadership:
magazine
Harrison Neighborhood Association; Mpls
Other:
“Heal Our City” virtual prayer group, CLNE
The Rev. Angela T. Khabeb joined the Holy
vol.
Trinity ministry staff in August 2018. Pastor
Other:
Angela, a Bridges Scholar, completed
“I was humbled at the nomination to
seminary at the Lutheran School of Theology
consider offering leadership on the Synod’s
at Chicago where she won the James
discipline committee. I would not commit
Kenneth Echols Prize for Excellence in
to this opportunity to serve if not for my
Preaching. From 2000-2002, Angela was an
complete confidence and trust in the Spirit
ELCA missionary in Namibia, Africa where
work within and through me. I am an eight
she met and married her husband, Benhi.
(8) on the Enneagram Personality Test.”
Benhi and Angela have been married since
2001 and they have three wonderful children. Mr. Marc Jacobson
In their spare time, this vibrant family enjoys Demographics:
world music, creative writing, leisurely walks, Lay Leader
and bike riding. Congregation/Conference:
Trinity Lutheran Church, Monticello;
Discipline Committee Western Waters Conference
Mr. Justin Zoss
Demographics:
Lay leader
Augsburg Corporation
Congregation/Conference:
First Lutheran Church of Crystal; Northwest
Governing Board
Hennepin Conference
Vocation/Employment: Ms. Sally Daniels Herron (1st term)
Transportation Security Inspector Demographics:
Church Leadership: Lay Leader; Female; Caucasian
Council Member Congregation/Conference:
Other: Valley of Peace Lutheran Church, Golden
“I am a member of First Lutheran Church of Valley; Northwest Hennepin Conference
Crustal and have been on the council for the Vocation/Employment:
past 6 years. I will serve the synod to the best Parish and Communications Administrator,
27 of my ability.” Valley of Peace Lutheran ChurchNOMINEES (cont.)
Church Leadership: Vocation/Employment:
“I have served on our church council in a Senior Engineering Manageer at Target
variety of roles, twice as Congregational Technology
President. I taught children’s Faith Formation Church Leadership:
for many years. I have been the wedding Leader of Sr. youth Group
coordinator at Valley of Peace for 10+ years. Community Leadership:
I have now worked in the office at Valley of No current engagements; formerly
Peace for almost four years as our Parish and VP of the Neighborhood Hub in North
Communications Administrator.” Minneapolis; President of the NW Thrivent
Community Leadership: Board.
“My community activities have primarily Other:
been at church; prior to being at Valley of “I’m an Alum of Augsburg and I am thrilled
Peace, I was an active member of Central in the direction the President Pribbenow
Lutheran in downtown Minneapolis.” has been taking Augsburg.”
Other:
“Prior to working at Valley of Peace, I worked
at Augsburg University for 38 years in a
Rev. John Strommen (2nd term)
Demographics:
variety of roles and was a student for four
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
years before that! I would be honored to
Caucasian
serve on the Augsburg Governing Board.”
Congregation/Conference:
Trinity Lutheran Church, Long Lake; 394
Ms. Kirsten Kelly (2nd term) Corridor North Conference
Demographics: Vocation/Employment:
Lay leader; Female; Caucasian Interim Senior Pastor of Trinity
(Scandinavian) Church Leadership:
Congregation/Conference: “Facilitating an interim process that
Light of Christ Lutheran Church, Delano; 394 clarifies congregational and staff identity,
Corridor North Conference and helps the discern where God is
Vocation/Employment: leading.”
Director of Children, Youth & Family Community Leadership:
Ministries, Light of Christ Lutheran Board Member of Church Innovations
Church Leadership: Institute
Staff Other:
Community Leadership: “I am currently a Masters of Theology
School Volunteer student at Luther Seminary, studying
Other: Lutheran theology and missional church
“My husband and I are both Augsburg grads leadership. I am also an avid photographer,
(Class of 2000). We have 3 boys ages 14, 11 movie buff, cyclist, weightlifter, and traveler
and 3. I’ve worked in ELCA congregations for with my wife, Heidi.”
over 20 years doing children, youth & family
ministry and continue to have a passion for Rev. Ashley Osborn (1st term)
youth, families and their faith foundation.” Demographics:
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female;
Mr. Larye Pohlman (2nd term) White
Demographics: Congregation/Conference:
Lay leader; Male; White/Anglo Valley of Peace Lutheran Church, Golden
Congregation/Conference: Valley; Northwest Hennepin Conference
Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; Vocation/Employment:
Central Conference Pastor at Valley of Peace
28NOMINEES (cont.)
Church Leadership: currently for the Minneapolis Area Synod,
“I am active in conference gatherings, peer as well serving on various synod task
groups, and clergy support networks. I forces and committees over the years. I’m
have served as a facilitator for The Christian in my third parish, and my thirtieth year of
Public Leader in Context course at Luther ordained Word and Sacrament ministry.”
Seminary. I have also served in several areas Community Leadership:
with the Southeastern Minnesota Synod, “I’ve been involved in local ministerial
including on Synod Council, a special gifts associations, including time as president,
campaign member, and the Global Missions and on boards of local social service
Companion Synod Table member, specifically ministries.”
working closely with Pr. Wal Reat, an ELCA
Missionary.”
Ms. Madeline Kinn (1st term)
Community Leadership:
Demographics:
“I am involved in clergy networks that
Lay leader; Female; White; Young Adult
offer community support in Golden Valley,
Congregation/Conference:
specifically with the Golden Valley Pride
Zion Lutheran Church, Anoka; Rum River
Festival. I also work closely with Noble
Conference
Elementary School. I have served with Infants
Vocation/Employment:
Remembered in Silence and served on the
Life Enrichment Director at Havenwood of
boards of Community Cafe in Faribault, MN
Burnsville Senior Living
and the United Way of Faribault.”
Church Leadership:
Other:
“I am a participant in young adult small
“Ministry is fundamentally joyful for me
groups at church, volunteer with The
and I have a relentless drive to articulate
Gathering (care giver respite/support
the Gospel of Jesus Christ for our time and
group), youth bible study leader, participant
place. I am intentional about bringing the
in international and domestic mission trips,
events of the wider world into dialogue with
volunteer member of the decor team for
the revelation of Scripture and the life of
liturgical seasons, communion server, and
our church. I seek to invite people into an
I lead many different devotional and bible
experience of God’s Living Word that bears
studies at my workplace as well.”
grace, mercy, and the power to transform our
Community Leadership:
lives and communities of faith.”
“I was recently invited as a virtual guest
at my high school to provide senior high
Rev. Joseph Crippen (1st term) schoolers with information about senior
Demographics: living and healthcare careers.
Minister of Word and Sacrament I assisted with cleanup efforts in the Lake
Congregation/Conference: Street neighborhood of Minneapolis after
Mount Olive Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; the George Floyd riots.
Central Conference I recently helped raise funds via volunteer
Vocation/Employment: work for dementia and Alzheimer’s
Pastor of Mount Olive foundations.”
Church Leadership: Other:
“I’ve served on the ELCA Church Council, “I’m an Augsburg University Alum,
the Synod Council of both the Minneapolis dedicated to serving our elderly population.
Area Synod and the Southeastern Minnesota I enjoy sharing and witnessing the growing
Synod; I’ve served on the board of campus faith relationships with our young adult
ministry for Minnesota State-Mankato; I populations in the church. Lastly, I like to
have served on the Reference and Counsel learn about other cultures and languages,
committee for ELCA Churchwide Assemblies, and to travel.”
for the Southeastern Minnesota Synod and 29NOMINEES (cont.)
2022 Churchwide and adult education; outreach ministries;
neighborhood engagement; mission and
Assembly Voting Members service opportunities
Community Leadership:
Rev. Sarah Moat Wildfire Every Meal, Chair
Demographics: Isaiah West Metro
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; Other:
Caucasian “I am a second-career Minister of Word &
Congregation/Conference: Service, ordained in 2009, having obtained
Gethsemane Lutheran Church of Hopkins; a Master’s degree in Congregational
Western Parks & Lakes Conference Mission and Leadership from Luther
Vocation/Employment: Seminary. I’ve served west-metro ELCA
Pastor at Gethsemane congregations since 2001 as paid staff,
Church Leadership: but began serving as a volunteer in my
“I have leadership of our global mission home church around the age of 10 in many
partnership in El Salvador along with our capacities over the years.”
local social ministry team that addresses
issues of poverty, injustice, and food and Ms. Susanne M. Ferkingstad
housing instability in our community. I lead Demographics:
our caring ministries, women’s ministry, Lay leader; Female; Caucasian
education ministries (along with staff Congregation/Conference:
leadership) and am involved in worship Faith-Lilac Way Lutheran Church,
planning, regular preaching and teaching. Robbinsdale; Northwest Hennepin
Community Leadership: Conference
I am part of the Hopkins Race and Equity Vocation/Employment:
Initiative (HREI) which is a collaborative Wiley Education Services> Concordia
between the public schools, police University St. Paul Enrollment Counselor
department, city, and faith community. As Church Leadership:
a mother of three daughters I have been an Church Council; Chancel Choir
avid supporter of the swim team, the dance Community Leadership:
studio, and the cross country teams - doing Cherish All Children volunteer and Advisory
my best to support their teams, coaches and Board Member
peers.” Other:
Other: “I love to sing, cook (and eat), make
“I am a trained spiritual director through greeting cards and laugh. Being a work in
Christos Center. I find great solace and joy progress, I feel I grow each day in my faith.
in the North Shore of Lake Superior and love Like everyone else, I cannot wait to get
the MN Twins.” together with family and friends, hug them
tight!
Deacon Kirsten Kessel
Demographics: Rev. Ian Coen-Frei
Minister of Word and Service; Female; Demographics:
Northern European Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
Congregation/Conference: White; Young Adult
First Lutheran Church of Crystal; Northwest Congregation/Conference:
Hennepin Conference Faith Lutheran Church, Isanti; Northern
Vocation/Employment: Conference
Minister of Word and Service at First Vocation/Employment:
Church Leadership: Pastor at Faith Lutheran
30 Worship leading; preaching; confirmationNOMINEES (cont.)
Church Leadership: as the center of the church. The care
“I work very actively with the Stewardship, provided in healthcare is an enhancement
Finance and Music & Worship committees, in of the care that our pastors provide.
addition to the church council.” Continuing education for our seminarians
Other: is a commitment of mine.”
“I am a May 2020 graduate of the Lutheran
School of Theology at Chicago, and began
Mr. Jim Sandquist
my solo call to Faith Lutheran in July. I
Demographics:
believe that through our collective power,
Lay leader; Male; Caucasian
the ELCA has the opportunity to engender
Congregation/Conference:
transformative change that can impact the
Trinity Lutheran Church, Watertown;
lives of those within and surrounding our
Southwest Conference
congregations.”
Vocation/Employment:
Retired
Rev. Korla Masters Church Leadership:
Demographics: Building Committee Chair; Cemetary Board
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Woman; Treasurer; Capital Campaign Co-chair;
White Stewardship; Covid Response Team
Congregation/Conference: Community Leadership:
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, Prior Commission on Aging; Planning
Lake; Southwest Conference Commission; WeCab volunteer driver
Vocation/Employment: Other:
Pastor at Shepherd of the Lake “I am single, lifetime member of Trinity
Church Leadership: Lutheran.Currently working part time at
Southwest Conference participant; synod Target. Enjoy walking, biking, attending
militant nonviolent direct action training and concerts and sporting events.”
organizing
Community Leadership:
Ms. Eileen Nelson
Southwest Metro Campaign Action Team
Demographics:
(Beacon Interfaith Housing)
Lay leader; Female; Caucasian
Congregation/Conference:
Rev. Tania Hammer-Luken Trinity Lutheran Church, Watertown;
Demographics: Southwest Conference
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; Vocation/Employment:
Caucasian Retired
Congregation/Conference: Church Leadership:
Allina Hospitals and Clinics/Mercy Hospital; Handbell choir member; funeral luncheon
South Minneapolis Conference coordinator; altar guild co-chair; Bible
Vocation/Employment: study leader
Chaplain at Allina Community Leadership:
Church Leadership: Volunteer at the school district and the
ACPE Educator, Guest Speaker, Preacher Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Community Leadership: Other:
“Diversity, equity, and inclusion is a large “I’m a life-long member of this church body
part of my current role; volunteer at vaccine and its predecessor ALC church and have
clinics; critical incident stress debriefing appreciated participating in its growth over
Other: the years. Retirement with the volunteer
“My calling in the clinical setting is opportunities and grandparenting are
31 predominantly focused on the congregation serving me well.”NOMINEES (cont.)
Mr. Luke Friendshuh song and loving presence.”
Demographics: Other:
Lay leader “I am beginning seminary in the fall of
Congregation/Conference: 2021. I look forward to bringing my decade
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, New Prague; of experience as a teacher in the public
Southwest Conference schools as well as my growing experience
Vocation/Employment: as a seminarian to the Synod Assembly.
Research Engineer at System Modeling I am particularly interested in the ways
Institute that queer, interfaith, and racial justice
Church Leadership: perspectives can inform and enrich the
Council President; Leader of Strategic work of the church.”
plan development; Small group leader;
Confirmation mentor; Lead person for Holy Mr. Asefa Wakjira
Trinity in the Congregations in Secular Age Demographics:
Grant Lay Leader
Community Leadership: Congregation/Conference:
Hope house volunteer Our Redeemer Oromo Evangelical Church;
Other: South Minneapolis Conference
“I am the Father of 3 grown boys. I love the Vocation/Employment:
peace, quiet and solitude of living in the Children and Youth Ministry Coordinator at
country. One of my favorite “activities” is Our Redeemer Oromo Evangelical Church
thinking.” Church Leadership:
Coordinating Children and Youth Ministry;
Rev. Wondimu Sonessa teaching Sunday School; preaching at
Demographics: Church; coordinating mid-week service.
Minister of Word and Sacrament Community Leadership:
Congregation/Conference: Coordinating young adult ministry of
Our Redeemer Oromo Evangelical Church; different emigrant Churches in Twin Cities
South Minneapolis Conference Other:
Vocation/Employment: “I was born and raised in rural Ethiopia to
Pastor at Our Redeemer Oromo a family of Lutherans. I got my master of
Church Leadership: divinity from San Francisco Theological
Pastor Seminary and am currently a MTh student
at Luther Seminary. I’m praying to pursue
candidacy at ELCA.”
Ms. Ina Ziegler
Demographics:
Lay leader; Female; White Rev. Timothy Schroeder
Congregation/Conference: Demographics:
Christ Church Lutheran; South Minneapolis Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
Conference Caucasian
Vocation/Employment: Congregation/Conference:
Teacher at Minneapolis Public Schools Peace Lutheran Church, Coon Rapids; Rum
Church Leadership: River Conference
Racial Justice Task Force member; Altar Vocation/Employment:
Guild member; Lector Associate Pastor at Peace; Admissions
Community Leadership: Counselor at Luther Seminary
“I am a member of the Morning Star Singers, Church Leadership:
a threshold choir which ministers to people Lutheran Men in Mission Ambassador
struggling with living and dying through (2020-Present); Extraordinary Lutheran
Ministries Proclaim Chaplain (2018-20); 32NOMINEES (cont.)
ELCA Youth Gathering Servant Companion Rev. Sherri Otto
Coach (2015/2018); Pastoral Internship with Demographics:
the American Church in Berlin, Germany Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female;
(2016-17); Hospitality and Outreach Intern to White
Lutheran Campus Ministry UofM- Twin Cities Congregation/Conference:
(2014-2016); Director of Lutheran Campus Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church,
Ministry to University of Wisconsin-Stout Edina; Crosstown Conference
(2011-2014); Lutheran Youth Organization for Vocation/Employment:
Northwest Synod of Wisconsin- Chaplain Associate Pastor at Shepherd of the Hills
(2012-14); NW-Synod of Wisconsin ELCA Church Leadership:
Malaria Campaign Coordinator (2011- “I work with kids of all ages in their faith
14); Bread for the World Board Member- formation, preach, lead Bible Studies, and
Menomonie, WI Chapter (2007-2014) care for the needs of our congregation.”
Community Leadership: Community Leadership:
Lutheran Campus Ministry UofM-Twin “I am involved with a group of pastors
Cities Board Member (2020-Present); from different denominations that gather
Lutheran Campus Ministry UofM-Twin Cities for prayer towards racial justice, equity
Development Committee (2017-Present); and peace. I am also part of a group that
Lift Garage Development Committee is working towards housing an Asylum
(2017-Present) Seeker at our parsonage.”
Other: Other:
“In my two paid vocations of being Pastor “This is my first call which started on
and Admissions Counselor, I am strongly March 1, 2020. I retired from my first career
called to lift up new leaders for the church. I where I worked as a Detention Deputy at
believe youth and young adults are the future the Hennepin County Jail for 22 years. This
of the Church and it is so important that all past year, I started my call, got married,
generations hear the invitation to invest in bought a new home and was ordained.
these young people to learn and carry the Whew!!”
upcoming leadership roles of our churches. ”
Ms. Anne Schaefer
Ms. Emily Brown Demographics:
Demographics:
Lay leader; Female; White, non-Hispanic
Lay leader; Female; Chinese; Young Adult
Congregation/Conference:
Congregation/Conference:
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church,
Peace Lutheran Church, Coon Rapids; Rum
Edina; Crosstown Conference
River Conference
Vocation/Employment:
Vocation/Employment:
Pastoral Intern at Shepherd of the Hills
Youth Director at Peace
Church Leadership:
Church Leadership:
Worship leading and planning; faith
Youth Ministry; Office Administration; Sound
formation/programming; Bible studies;
Tech; Parking Lot Worship Assistant
outreach; and others as needed or created
Community Leadership:
Community Leadership:
Served as treasurer of the 4th Precinct
Chaplain at Twin Cities Interfaith
Advisory Council in Minneapolis
Chaplains; President of Servant
Other:
Schoolhouse Preschool Board
“I love God! I love the Dallas Cowboys! I try
Other:
to serve my congregation, my community,
“I will be graduating with an MDiv from
and my neighbor in whatever ways that I
Luther Seminary in 2022, and I am hopeful
can. I am excited to be starting Seminary at
to serve in the Minneapolis Area Synod. My
33 Luther this summer.”NOMINEES (cont.)
husband and I have three kids - one in each Bloomington Faith Leaders; Twin
college, high school and middle school. ” Cities Interfaith Movement Chaplains;
Bloomington Housing Coalition; ISAIAH
Ms. Shari Seifert Other:
Demographics: “Before seminary I spent a year in the
Lay leader Lutheran Volunteer Corps, working
Congregation/Conference: as a Youth Ministry Coordinator at a
Calvary Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; congregation in urban Chicago. Prior to
Central Conference coming to Bloomington, I served four
Vocation/Employment: congregations in rural North Dakota. I
Realtor RE/MAX Results - “I sell houses and value hard work, fast friendship, a lived
dismantle white supremacy in the church.” faith, adventure, and am passionate about
Church Leadership: discipleship and the work that God is doing
MYLE core team - Cultural Awareness; Chair in our world today.”
of Calvary’s Race Equity Committee; Synod’s
anti-racism team (The Unite table); VP and Mr. Gregory Hornicke
soon to be president of European Descent Demographics:
Lutheran Association for Racial Justice Lay leader; Male; White
(EDLARJ) Congregation/Conference:
Community Leadership: St. Luke’s Lutheran Church; Bloomington
Engaged with the community of George Conference
Floyd Square including organizing multi- Vocation/Employment:
faith vigils; training education committee Retired
for Equity and Inclusion at RE/MAX Results; Church Leadership:
part of Multi-faith Anti-racism and Healing Past 2 term music council member; choir;
(MARCH) ring bells; assistant minister
Other: Community Leadership:
“When I attended the last CWA on behalf of Feed my Starving Children; Augsburg
EDLARJ, I was asked by BIPOC folks - who Centennial Singers; Augsburg Masterworks
were working on getting resolutions passed Chorale
- if I was a voting member or if there were Other:
EDLARJ voting members present; I had to “Church, my two kids and my two
say “no” on both counts. They were looking grandchildren.”
for white folks to speak to the resolutions. I
am planning on being more prepared at the Rev. Aaron Fuller
next 2022 and having myself and others in Demographics:
place to offer support.” Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
Korean
Congregation/Conference:
Rev. Rory Philstrom
Our Father’s Lutheran Church, Rockford;
Demographics:
394 Corridor North Conference
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
Vocation/Employment:
Caucasian
Pastor, Our Father’s/Chaplain, US Navy
Congregation/Conference:
Reserve
Christ the King Lutheran Church;
Church Leadership:
Bloomington Conference
Churchwide involvement: M2SGF Working
Vocation/Employment:
Group (2015); ELCA Youth Gathering Main
Lead Pastor at Christ the King
Stage Speaker (2018); Va Synod Diversity,
Church Leadership:
Inclusion, & Justice Chair (2014-2017);
Lead Pastor
ELCA Federal Chaplaincy Centurion
34 Community Leadership:NOMINEES (cont.)
Connect Rep. (Va Synod 2013-2020; Mpls and Property committees; Lector and
Area Synod, 2021-Present) Assisting Minister
Community Leadership: Community Leadership:
Assistant Wrestling Coach, Augsburg Chair-Crossroads Community Organization
University Other:
“As Navy Chaplain, 8 years providing “I love to travel with family and friends so
leadership in advancing Spirituality within cannot wait until we are all safe in other
the US Marine Corps, advancing efforts spaces to make that possible.”
to integrate spirituality in mental health
and resiliency approaches, and service Mr. Reuel Persaud
level working groups to address suicide Demographics:
prevention, diversity, and ethics programs in Lay leader; Male; Mixed
the US Navy and Marine Corps.” Congregation/Conference:
Other: House of Hope Lutheran Church, New
“Graduate of the US Naval Academy and was Hope; Northwest Hennepin Conference
a prior submarine warfare officer for 9 years Vocation/Employment:
on active duty. A transracial Korean adoptee Services Consultant
who grew up on a dairy farm in Central Church Leadership:
MN. Married to Kelly Schumacher Fuller, Member of the Youth and Family
who works at the Center for Leadership and Committee at House of Hope Lutheran
Neighborhood Engagement.” Church
Other:
Ms. Yesenia Morales Bahena “I enjoy traveling, being active, and meeting
Demographics: new people. I am passionate about serving
Lay leader; Female; Latina others.”
Congregation/Conference:
University Lutheran Church of Hope, Rev. Jeffrey Schulz
Minneapolis; Central Conference Demographics:
Vocation/Employment: Minister of Word and Sacrament
Seminarian at Wartburg Theological Congregation/Conference:
Seminary and Legal Assistant at Steven C. Bethany Lutheran Church, Minneapolis;
Thal, P.A Central Conference
Church Leadership: Vocation/Employment:
Compassion Care Ministry; Immigration and Pastor at Bethany Lutheran
Sanctuary Network; lector Church Leadership:
Community Leadership: “I am the solo pastor at Bethany
Board Member of Legal Rights Center; leader Lutheran, regularly preaching, teaching,
with ISAIAH; member of Mujeres Latinas administering the sacraments, and
Network; Sanctuary Network providing pastoral care.”
Community Leadership:
Synod Vice President Felecia Boone “Bethany Lutheran continues to the life
Demographics: of the greater community, continuing to
Lay leader; Female; Black be the home of the Soup for You! Cafe
Congregation/Conference: and Clothes Closet, living the Gospel
Calvary Ev. Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; message of feeding and clothing the poor.
Central Conference Additionally, Bethany has been part of
Vocation/Employment: the Riverside Innovation Hub, looking at
DEI Consultant at Hennepin County the participations of young adults in the
Church Leadership: life of the church using a public church
Synod VP; member of Calvary’s Race Equity framework.” 35NOMINEES (cont.)
Other: Mr. Michael Tarras
“I continue to hold dear the words of the late Demographics:
Dr. Maya Angelou as part of my personal Lay leader; Male; White
credo: “The question is not how to survive, Congregation/Conference:
but how to thrive...with passion, compassion, Redeemer Lutheran Church; North
humor, and style!”” Minnepolis Conference
Vocation/Employment:
Rev. Tyler Strom Sr. Technical Writer - Milestone Systems
Demographics: Inc.
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Church Leadership:
White 2009-2012 (Secretary), 2009 - Present
Congregation/Conference: (Finance Committee Member) 2017-2020
Word of Peace Lutheran Church, Rogers; (Treasurer) 2021 - Present (Vice President)
Western Waters Conference Community Leadership:
Vocation/Employment: 2011 & 2012 - (Redeemer After-school
Pastor at Word of Peace Program volunteer & teacher) 2013 - 2016
Church Leadership: (Assistant Coach for Northside Wrestling
Oversee the ministry areas of local outreach, Club)
global missions, volunteer ministry, strategic Other:
planning and adult faith formation. “Born in Eau Claire, WI. Baptized at St.
Community Leadership: John’s Lutheran Church on Highland Ave.
Activity involved with partner organizations in Eau Claire. Father of two girls (10 and 7)
of CROSS services, Dayton Mobile Hope, and both baptized at Redeemer.”
School District 728 Community Partners.
Mr. James Moat
Ms. Anna Stockinger Demographics:
Demographics: Lay leader; Male; Caucasian
Lay leader; Female; White; Young Adult Congregation/Conference:
Congregation/Conference: Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Hopkins;
Our Saviour’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Western Parks & Lakes Conference
of East Bethel; Northern Conference Vocation/Employment:
Vocation/Employment: Clinical Research Consultant, IMARC
EMT, Cambridge Medical Center, Allina Research, Inc.
Health Church Leadership:
Church Leadership: Worship band member; event photography;
Youth Group Member, Sunday School confirmation mentor
Teacher Community Leadership:
Community Leadership: political volunteer
Volunteer with Linwood fire department, Other:
Volunteer with OEC Program, Run a Book “As a Pastor’s spouse, I’ve seen firsthand
box for my neighborhood the long hours they put in, along with the
Other: joys ministry can bring. Being a dad to
“I grew up with three sisters just north of three amazing daughters has taught me so
the twin cities, together we enjoy all things much about God’s grace.”
that the Minnesota outdoors has to offer.
Currently, I am a St. Cloud State University Mr. Gracious Msuya
Nursing student who will graduate in May of Demographics:
2022. Throughout the last year I have greatly Lay leader; Black
missed worshipping in person and seeing my Congregation/Conference:
church family. ” Minnesota Swahili Christian Congregation;
36NOMINEES (cont.)
South Minneapolis Conference Deacon Laurie Beckman Yetzer
Church Leadership: Demographics:
Chairman of the Church Council; Writing Minister of Word and Service; Female;
church strategic plan; Leading online White
services during pandemic; Applying for Congregation/Conference:
loans/grants for our congregation; mentoring Woodlake Lutheran Church, Richfield;
church youth Crosstown Conference
Community Leadership: Vocation/Employment:
Serves as an advisor-liaison for Tanzania Take Action Minnesota
(ETI) which works with the Evangelical Church Leadership:
Lutheran Church of Tanzania, Karagwe Unite Table
Diocese, to build an agri-business college
in Karagwe Tanzania, among other things;
Serves as board member of Director for
Axis Medical Centerin Minneapolis, MN - a
2022 Churchwide Assembly
not-for-profit organization which provides
medical/healthcare services to low income
Alternate Voting Members
communities in Minneapolis. Rev. Kaitlyn Forster
Other: Demographics:
“I’m a leader of a small mostly immigrant Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female;
Swahili speaking church in Minneapolis, MN. Caucasian
We love and serve God through caring for Congregation/Conference:
one another. I believe in faith by action and Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Maple Grove;
is passionate about education, mentoring Northwest Hennepin Conference
youth, racial equity and social justice in Vocation/Employment:
general both in and outside of the church.” Associate Pastor at Lord of Life
Church Leadership:
Ms. Emma Weilage Leading worship, pastoring people, and
Demographics: engaging in the ministry at Lord of Life.
Lay leader; Youth; Female; Asian Other:
Congregation/Conference: “I’m a pastor, spouse, and mom of 2, who
Faith-Lilac Way Lutheran Church, loves exploring the places where God is
Robbinsdale; Northwest Hennepin calling. I enjoy wrestling with policies and
Conference guiding documents to give compassion and
Vocation/Employment: structure to our shared life together.“
Student at Armstron High School
Church Leadership: Rev. Jodi Barry
Youth representative and member of the Demographics:
internship committee Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female;
Community Leadership: Caucasian
Fundraiser coordinator for Girls United; Congregation/Conference:
softball; Best Buddies; NHS; and Grace University Lutheran Church,
environmental club Minnneapolis; Central Conference
Other: Vocation/Employment:
“Somethings about me are that I like to go Chaplain - Abiitan Mill City (Ecumen)
hammocking, camping, and biking. I also like Church Leadership:
to try new foods around Minneapolis.” As needed
Community Leadership:
Mom’s Demand Action - Faith Community
37 Liason (NE Chapter)NOMINEES (cont.)
Other: Rev. Brian Mundt
“I am strongly committed to the work of Demographics:
the ELCA and specifically the Minneapolis Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
Synod. It is wise for the church and synods White
to make use of specialized ministers unique Congregation/Conference:
skill set, especially in light of the pandemic Richfield Lutheran Church; Crosstown
and the many (unmet) mental health needs Conference
of ELCA members.” Vocation/Employment:
Lead Pastor at Richfield Lutheran
Mr. Paul Mikelson Church Leadership:
Demographics: Spiritual Director
Lay leader; Male; Caucasian Other:
Congregation/Conference: “I am honored to be nominated as an
Valley of Peace Lutheran Church, Golden alternate clergy voting member from the
Valley; Northwest Hennepin Conference South Minneapolis Conference. I live in
Vocation/Employment: the King Field Neighborhood of south
Retired Minneapolis. The only other time I’ve been
Church Leadership: to a Churchwide Assembly was in 2016,
Vice Chair, MAS Candidacy Committee when I was a voting member from the
Community Leadership: Northwest Synod of Wisconsin to the CWA
Habitat for Humanity, Noble School Reading in New Orleans. These are powerful times
Tutor, Loaves & Fishes to be the church and to grace-fully walk
Other: with our neighbors.”
“My grandfather was an ordained minister
in the Lutheran Free Church; I have been
Ms. Eliza Thompson
a lifelong Lutheran, attended a Lutheran
Demographics:
College (Augsburg) and have always been
Lay leader; Female; White; Young Adult
active in my local congregation.”
Congregation/Conference:
Bethlehem Lutheran Church; South
Rev. Susan Engholm Minneapolis Conference
Demographics: Vocation/Employment:
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; “Current 4th year medical student at
White Washington University in St. Louis. After
Congregation/Conference: graduation this spring, I will be a resident
Trinity Lutheran Church, Watertown; in internal medicine at the Mayo Clinic in
Southwest Conference Rochester MN. I love studying medicine
Vocation/Employment: and I am so excited to continue my work
Pastor, on leave from call learning how to heal and connect with
Church Leadership: others.”
Preaching, spiritual direction Church Leadership:
Other: “Long time member at Bethlehem Lutheran
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to since my baptism. Even from St. Louis, I
serve as an alternate voting member! I have continue to be active at Bethlehem through
been a pastor for 18 years and a part of this weekly participation in Adult Bible Study
synod for the past 6 years.” over Zoom. When we are able, (pandemic
or otherwise) I also like to volunteer as
assisting minister. I have been active in
VBS throughout my life, assisting my
brother as he leads our Lutefisk dinner,
38NOMINEES (cont.)
and singing when I get the chance. While Rev. Rebecca Gamble
away, I have connected with local Lutheran Demographics:
churches here in St. Louis, including Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female;
assisting with Lutheran Campus Ministry. I White
love church wherever I am.” Congregation/Conference:
Community Leadership: Normandale Evangelical Lutheran Church,
“As a medical student, I have engaged in a Edina; Crosstown Conference
variety of community activities here in St. Vocation/Employment:
Louis, ranging from extensive work with Associate Pastor at Normandale
the local VA hospital to volunteering at the Church Leadership:
Children’s hospital.” Head of Care and Outreach Ministries.
Other: (Head of Adult Education - unofficially)
“I love church. I believe the Lutheran church Community Leadership:
has a uniquely powerful ability to connect Board Member of the “Transformation
people with God and each other and I am Committee” for Lutheran Partners in Global
passionate about building the church for the Ministry; Active Member of ISAIAH’s faith-
future.” based community organizing.
Other:
Mr. Colin Watkins “I have lived abroad for several years with
Demographics: the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission
Lay leader; Male; White program (India), and as one of four annual
Congregation/Conference: ELCA Horizon International Internships
Christ Church Lutheran; South Minneapolis (Malaysia). My background in Social Work
Conference and my passion for God’s tranformational
Vocation/Employment: power to renew life deeply inform my
Financial Planner, Waypoint Capital Advisors decision-making. I bring a diverse
Church Leadership: background of congregational experiences,
Choir; church council; endowment ranging from a tiny mission-start in TX
committee (60% of congregation members under
the age of 18), to a scrappy Minneapolis
Rev. Eric Nelson “church for people who don’t like church”,
Demographics: and my first pastoral call at a progressive
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; White “mega church” (4,500+), to my present call
Congregation/Conference: with a congregation which is well known
St. Phillip’s Lutheran Church, Fridley; Rum for being steeped in traditional forms of
River Conference Lutheran worship.”
Vocation/Employment:
Associate Pastor at St. Phillip’s Ms. Vishakha Kanwar
Other: Demographics:
“I am a recent graduate of Luther Seminary in Lay leader; Woman; Indian; Young Adult
my first call as a pastor. I have work history in Congregation/Conference:
camp ministry, youth ministry, and education. Normandale Evangelical Lutheran Church,
When not at work, I enjoy family time with my Edina; Crosstown Conference
spouse and our three young children.” Vocation:
Student
Church Leadership:
Various leadership roles in guiding children
and youth in their faith
Community Leadership:
39 Adopt-a-highway (picking up garbageNOMINEES (cont.)
in the environment); Reading Buddies event hospitality (funerals, Augsburg
(Normandale housing for children and vespers, music events), 100th anniversary
families) committee. Activities: Bible study,
Other: contemplative prayer group, participated in
“I am a student attending UW-Eau Claire study groups for RIC, welcome statement,
currently majoring in Psychology. What empowering conversations (current
brings me the most joy is helping others find focus on IDI and anti-racism), Enneagram
what makes them happiest and become the workshop (yeah for #8!); building tours for
best version of themselves.” visitors.”
Community Leadership:
Rev. Bill Russell “I work full-time in a human-services
Demographics: focused organization. I also work part-time
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; (pre-Covid) as an usher at Orchestra Hall.
White Working two-jobs makes my community
Congregation/Conference: activities focused on phone banks and
Augustana Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; letter/email advocacy. Vocal support
Central Conference at public events and demonstrations
Vocation/Employment: are sometimes possible. I do volunteer
Pastor at Augustana document transcription on the Library of
Church Leadership: Congress web-site, most recently on letters
Full range of pastoral leadership and arts at to and from early suffragettes. Volunteer
Augustana; Synod partnerships with Leipzig dining room host for the National Lutheran
and Nigeria; ELCA rep to the Reformed Choir Christmas concerts.”
Church in America Commission on Theology; Other:
Guest Professor of Lutheran studies at Sabah “Most of my adult working life has been in
Seminary, Malaysia, and Bronham Seminary, church-related organizations (Augsburg
Nigeria. Fortress Publishers; Luther Seminary)
Community Leadership: and has gifted me with a deep love for this
Congregational strategic planning; Leipzig church and her people - sometimes in spite
Partnership; Luther/Lutheran Studies; clergy of the tumultuous changes. I’m resilient
text study; Minnesota Handball Association; and hopeful for the future. I love to sing. I
Community Emergency Service Board. look forward to being able to travel again -
Other: especially camping in northern MN.”
“It would be an honor to serve as a voting
member of the churchwide assembly. Rev. Erik Sevig
That said, I pray that Jeffery does not have Demographics:
occasion to withdraw.” Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
Caucasian
Ms. Judith Hedman Congregation/Conference:
Demographics: Community of the Cross Lutheran Church;
Lay leader; Female; Northern European Bloomington Conference
Congregation/Conference: Vocation/Employment:
Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; Pastor at Community of the Cross
Central Conference Church Leadership:
Vocation/Employment: Congregational Pastor
Office Manager, Metropolitan Alliance of Community Leadership:
Connected Communities Bloomington Housing Coalition; City
Church Leadership: of Bloomington Racial Equity Strategic
“Leadership: choir (including taking care of Planning Committee
40 music library and robes), lead public/specialNOMINEES (cont.)
Other:
“I was raised in the Faith by Bethlehem
Lutheran of Aberdeen, SD and developed
a sense of call to Pastoral Ministry at Klein
Ranch Bible Camp and Concordia College
- Moorhead. I thank God for the blessing of
my wife Amy, two healthy and happy teenage
sons, and a very sweet beagle named
Summer.”
Rev. Jeff Heiderscheit
Demographics:
Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male;
White
Congregation/Conference:
Saint Barnabas Lutheran Church, Plymouth;
394 Corridor North Conference
Vocation/Employment:
Pastor at Saint Barnabas
Church Leadership:
Previous Conference Dean, and served on
Leadership table
Community Leadership:
“I have been active in helping to facilitate the
creation of two Youth Ministry TreeHouse
sites, one in Plymouth, and one in Mound.”
Other:
“I have been an ordained pastor for 21 years.
I am looking for ways to engage with the
larger church body. I am in the first year of
lead pastor of St. Barnabas Lutheran Church.”
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